With the support of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan (METI), the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), in collaboration with 3 Japanese companies, has officially initiated a feasibility study for the production of hydrogen and ammonia fuels. This move aims to deepen the collaboration between the two countries in the development of renewable energy.
On March 4, 2023, EGAT signed a memorandum of cooperation with Chiyoda Corporation (CYD), Mitsubishi Corporation Thailand (MOL), and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MCT). The memorandum aims to explore the development of the entire supply chain for hydrogen and ammonia fuels, including production, transportation, and storage, and estimate the associated costs. The initiation ceremony took place on Monday, November 27, with the presence of the Japanese Ambassador to Thailand, Kazuya Nashida, representing Japan.
(Photo: EGAT)
Kazuya Nashida stated that Japan views the hydrogen market as a potential emerging industry that can create global revenue and employment opportunities. Hydrogen energy is considered a crucial factor in achieving the 2050 carbon neutrality goals. This collaboration aligns with the strategic policies of both the Japanese and Thai governments for a clean energy transition, aiming to accelerate the development of the hydrogen value chain in ASEAN countries. The Japanese government plans to invest approximately 150 trillion yen to explore the commercial potential of hydrogen energy.
Prasert Sinsukprasert, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy in Thailand, expressed Thailand's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and reducing carbon dioxide emissions as a member of the global and ASEAN community. The feasibility study on EGAT's clean hydrogen value chain, officially supported by Japan, is expected to play a crucial role in advancing Thailand's hydrogen development initiatives. The research findings, anticipated in 2024, are expected not only to contribute to carbon reduction but also to stimulate economic growth, enhance energy utilization flexibility, and bring about long-term benefits for both parties.
Jiraporn Sirikum, acting governor of EGAT, stated that this collaboration will facilitate the development of clean hydrogen and ammonia fuel production technologies and enhance the standards of energy-related infrastructure. The funding for this initiative will be utilized to drive energy infrastructure development in potential regions with the knowledge and technology from Japan.
Hydrogen energy has been incorporated into Thailand's national energy planning blueprints. The Energy Policy and Planning Office of the Ministry of Energy in Thailand has formulated the National Energy Planning Blueprint with the aim of achieving Thailand's carbon neutrality goals by 2050. This blueprint encompasses 5 plans, namely the Power Development Plan (PDP), Alternative and Renewable Energy Development Plan (AEDP), Energy Efficiency Plan (EEP), Gas Plan, and Oil Plan.
These five plans work towards realizing the goals through methods such as increasing the share of renewable energy, efficient production and utilization of energy, transitioning fossil fuels to low-carbon technology in electricity generation, and employing carbon capture and storage technology (CCS).
